10. Classification of Technical Requirements and the Means of Addressing the Problem of Waste Management in a Refugee Camp

The problem of refugees has taken on great significance because of the increasing number of humanitarian crises (e.g. wars, earthquakes, floods, but also economic crises and social disparities). The main response of the international community to the increased scale of refugee movements has been that of humanitarian assistance, usually provided within the context of refugee camps. Furthermore, the unpredictability of the disasters and the urgency to face them make the camp design a very difficult task. Due to the importance of this theme, the authors have developed a refugee camp reference framework identifying the main requirements and characteristics of a camp during a manmade or a natural crisis and a set of key technical indicators to support a rapid, effective and fit camp design. Waste management plays a fundamental role in the problem of sanitation and hygiene in a refugee camp. Waste is unavoidable and, if not properly managed, it may cause environmental and health problem, yet it can also represent a great opportunity. The authors have analysed the composition and quantities of waste coming from humanitarian crises and discuss approaches and technical solutions to limit the problems and, wherever possible to convert waste into useful materials, equipment or power sources.